The Enugu City Marathon of 2026 showcased remarkable performances in both the 10-kilometer and 42-kilometer races, which began in the Mgbemena neighborhood and concluded at the iconic Michael Okpara Square in Independence Layout.
The event attracted athletes from across Nigeria and various African countries, highlighting the growing prestige of the marathon.
In the men’s 42-kilometer race, Edwin Kipyogo from Kenya emerged victorious with a time of 2 hours, 23 minutes, and 38 seconds.
Close behind was Habtamu Girma of Ethiopia, who finished just a second later in 2 hours, 23 minutes, and 39 seconds, with fellow Ethiopian Shiferaw Daltiemayo securing third place in 2 hours, 23 minutes, and 41 seconds. The top three finishers received cash prizes of $15,000, $10,000, and $5,000, respectively.
On the women’s side, Ethiopia’s Zennebe Aberu claimed victory in the 42-kilometer race with a time of 2 hours, 48 minutes, and 40 seconds. She was followed by Negashu Chatiu in second place with a time of 3 hours, 3 minutes, and 18 seconds, and Adugna Mahley in third with 3 hours, 6 minutes, and 32 seconds.
They each received cash awards of $15,000, $10,000, and $5,000.
Nigerian athletes dominated the 10-kilometer men’s race, with Pam Joshua, Davwi Gyany, and Gang Boyi finishing in first, second, and third places, respectively.
Ifeanyi Ossai, the Deputy Governor of Enugu State, expressed his commitment to elevating the marathon’s standards in future editions. “Our goal is to continuously improve the quality of the event with each passing year,” he stated. “The standard gets better every time we host the marathon, and we are dedicated to ensuring its growth.
I commend all participants for choosing Enugu, and I encourage you to spread the word. Next year, we aim to quadruple the number of participants. We are determined to make this event even more spectacular.”
A very big Congratulations to Enugu State for successfully hosting the marathon that brought together athletes.
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Rose Ajieh
